Joint Implant Interface Registration for Rolling Motion Durability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for arthritis of the interphalangeal joints, such as joint replacement surgery and fusion, result in permanent functional loss of movement or inefficient joint mechanics, and there is a lack of durable and reliable interphalangeal joint replacements.
Innovation Solution
A joint implant design featuring proximal and distal joint implant elements with complementary curved interface surfaces and registration features, coupled by filaments, allowing for a range of motion while preventing rotation and maintaining registration through a rolling motion without slipping, and optionally using bone interface connectors and tensioning elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If joint replacement surgery is performed for arthritis of the interphalangeal joints, then joint functionality is improved, but the implant lacks durability and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved interface surfaces with registration features on both the proximal and distal joint implant elements. These curved surfaces are designed to roll against each other during joint motion, eliminating slipping and rubbing that cause wear. The curvature geometry is specifically engineered to maintain surface contact and registration throughout the range of motion, significantly improving implant durability and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic rolling motion mechanism between the curved interface surfaces of the joint implant elements. Instead of static contact or sliding, the surfaces dynamically roll against each other during joint flexion and extension. This dynamic motion pattern reduces friction and wear, enhancing the long-term reliability and durability of the implant.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If fusion of the joint is performed, then pain is reduced, but permanent functional loss of movement occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic joint replacement system that allows controlled movement between the proximal and distal implant elements through rolling motion. This dynamic capability preserves joint functionality and range of motion while providing pain relief, directly addressing the limitation of fusion surgery that eliminates all movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved interface surfaces enable natural-looking joint motion through rolling contact, mimicking the biomechanics of native joints. This curvature-based design allows the implant to provide pain relief while maintaining functional movement, unlike fusion which permanently eliminates motion.
3Ease of operation
If traditional joint replacement components are used, then joint replacement is achieved, but wear and rubbing between components reduces implant lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes curved interface surfaces with complementary registration features that are designed to roll against each other. This curved geometry ensures that the contact point moves along the surfaces during joint motion, distributing wear evenly and eliminating concentrated rubbing points. The rolling motion dramatically reduces friction and wear, extending implant lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic rolling contact system between the joint implant elements. Instead of static or sliding contact that causes wear, the surfaces dynamically roll against each other throughout the range of motion. This dynamic mechanism minimizes friction and wear accumulation, significantly extending the functional lifespan of the implant.
4Measurement precision
If registration features are added to maintain alignment through range of motion, then registration is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates registration features directly into the curved interface surfaces of the joint implant elements. These features are formed as part of the curvature geometry itself, such as raised portions, grooves, or asymmetric patterns on the rolling surfaces. This integration approach maintains registration accuracy without adding separate complex components, as the registration function is embedded within the curvature design.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The joint implant provides a durable and reliable solution that mimics the natural range of motion of hinge joints, reducing wear and increasing the implant's lifespan by minimizing slipping and rubbing between components, thus enhancing joint functionality and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
maintain registration between the proximal and distal joint implant elements through a range of motion of the proximal and distal joint implant elements relative to one another... through a rolling motion without slipping
Data Source
AI summary
A joint implant can include a proximal joint implant element having a proximal curved interface surface with a plurality of proximal registration features. A distal joint implant element can be rotatably coupled to the proximal joint implant element, and can have a distal curved interface with a plurality of distal registration features that are complementary to the proximal registration features such that the registration features interface together to maintain registration between the proximal and distal joint implant elements. A joint implant element connector can include a proximal pin supporting the proximal joint implant element and a distal pin supporting the distal joint implant element. At least one of the curved interface surfaces can include a protrusion that prevents rotation of the joint implant elements when the protrusion contacts the opposite curved interface surface.